A groundbreaking study led by Erica Spatz, MD, MHS, from Yale School of Medicine and Yale School of Public Health, reveals that digital health interventions significantly reduce blood pressure among populations facing health disparities. Published in JAMA Network Open on February 14, the research underscores the potential of technology in addressing the hypertension crisis, which affects nearly half of all U.S. adults and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Despite the prevalence, only about 24% of those with hypertension have their condition under control, with notable racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in treatment and awareness.
The study, titled “Digital Health Interventions for Hypertension Management in US Populations Experiencing Health Disparities,” involved a systematic review and meta-analysis of 28 studies, representing 8,257 patients. It aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of digital health strategies, such as remote blood pressure monitoring and text message reminders, in managing hypertension, particularly among underserved communities. These interventions were either culturally or linguistically tailored to the specific needs of the populations they served, focusing on overcoming barriers to healthcare access and improving patient outcomes.
Spatz highlighted the disproportionate burden of hypertension and associated mortality rates in groups traditionally underserved by medicine. The findings of this study build on existing evidence that digital health interventions can meaningfully improve outcomes for patients from these communities. This research not only sheds light on the efficacy of digital health tools in managing hypertension but also emphasizes the importance of tailoring interventions to address the unique challenges faced by underserved populations, thereby advancing health equity in the United States.
See “Digital Health Tools Help Manage Hypertension for Populations Experiencing Health Disparities” by Rachel Martin on the Yale School of Medicine (February 14, 2024)
